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Commission approves Carmel house and tree removals; staff requires nesting survey and limited replanting
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Summary
Planning commissioners approved a combined development permit for a new single‑family home at 3387 Ocean Ave and the removal of 24 protected trees, with conditions requiring a bat and bird nesting survey and a five‑tree replanting plan, and found the project categorically exempt under CEQA section 15303.
The Monterey County Planning Commission unanimously approved a combined development permit on Nov. 12 for a 2,812‑square‑foot single‑family dwelling at 3387 Ocean Avenue in Carmel that will require removal of 24 protected trees, including four landmark Monterey pines, staff said.
Staff told commissioners the lot is heavily forested and the proposed house and retaining work will impact 24 protected trees within the building footprint; the project arborist concluded replanting the full number of removed trees on the subject site would be infeasible and recommended replanting five 5‑gallon Monterey pines or coast live oaks. Staff recommended the project be found categorically exempt under CEQA and approved with conditions, including a bat and bird nesting survey as required by state law.
During public comment a remote participant asked whether a separate biotic assessment had been prepared for tree removal and potential roosting bats. Staff confirmed conditions include a bat and bird nesting survey and that trees under 12 inches diameter shown in the presentation are not protected under the local plan.
Commissioner Deal moved to approve the staff recommendation (with the packet corrections discussed in the hearing); Commissioner Hartsell seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Next steps: the applicant must satisfy the permit conditions, including the nesting survey and tree replacement monitoring, and obtain building permits before construction can proceed.
